Top 3 Whiskeys in the World Every Traveller Must Experience

For globetrotters with a refined palate, whiskey isn’t just a beverage—it’s an invitation to explore tradition, geography, and craftsmanship. Each glass of a top-tier whiskey holds the essence of its homeland, offering travellers a deeper cultural connection through every sip. Let’s explore the top three whiskeys in the world, their origins, how they’re crafted, and where travellers can find them on their journey.

🥇 The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Years Old – Scotland’s Finest

Nestled in the heart of Speyside, Scotland, The Macallan has been a symbol of luxury since its founding in 1824. Known for its dedication to aging in sherry-seasoned oak casks from Jerez, Spain, The Macallan has established itself as a global icon in single malt Scotch. It’s also a favorite of collectors and often featured in films like James Bond.

The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 is aged for nearly two decades, gaining its complex profile from the rich Oloroso sherry casks. The result is a smooth, full-bodied whisky with notes of dried fruits, spice, and subtle wood smoke.

Travellers can visit the Macallan Estate near Craigellachie to witness the production up close and enjoy guided tastings. The bottle is also available at many international airports, luxury hotel bars, and specialty liquor stores around the world.

🥈 Yamazaki 18 Year Old – Japan’s Masterpiece

From the scenic outskirts of Kyoto, the Yamazaki Distillery stands as Japan’s first and most renowned whisky maker. Established in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii, the founder of Suntory, Yamazaki fused Scottish tradition with Japanese precision and natural surroundings to create a distinctive whisky style.

Yamazaki 18 is matured in a blend of American, Spanish, and rare Japanese mizunara oak casks. Its flavor is rich and complex, offering a symphony of dried fruit, incense, dark chocolate, and sandalwood.

Travellers in Japan can visit the distillery near Osaka, which offers tours and exclusive bottle tastings. This rare whiskey is found in select duty-free shops, high-end Tokyo bars, and a few global premium outlets—though it’s often in short supply due to high demand.

🥉 Redbreast 21 Year Old – Ireland’s Pot Still Legend

Redbreast, produced at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Ireland, is widely regarded as the finest expression of Irish single pot still whiskey. Dating back to the early 1900s, Redbreast preserves a traditional method using a mix of malted and unmalted barley triple-distilled in copper pot stills.

The 21-year-old expression is a luxurious whiskey, aged in both sherry and bourbon casks. Its rich profile features honey, nuts, tropical fruits, and warming spice, delivering a long, silky finish that reflects Ireland’s deep whiskey heritage.

For those visiting Ireland, the Midleton Distillery offers immersive tours and the chance to try Redbreast straight from the source. It’s also commonly available in Dublin Airport’s duty-free section and premium whiskey stores throughout Europe and the U.S.

✈️ A Global Journey Through Whiskey

Whether wandering through the foggy glens of Scotland, exploring serene Japanese distilleries, or soaking up Irish tradition in County Cork, these top three whiskeys offer more than flavor—they deliver a travel experience in a glass. For passionate travellers, visiting these distilleries isn’t just about buying a bottle; it’s about stepping into a world of history, craft, and storytelling.

Each of these whiskeys represents a cultural heritage that travellers can explore through tastings, distillery tours, and exclusive releases available only on location. So, on your next journey, don’t just pack your bags—pack your curiosity and raise a glass to the world’s finest.